Lunar Magic, Rarities, and Leap Day Enchantment
Since the lunar cycle is a monthly occurrence, I have chosen to present all the lunar information in one place to avoid repetition. Though many magical people choose to celebrate the different moons according to their astrological placement or traditional seasonal attributes, the primary essence of lunar energy remains a constant and it is this power which these formulas draw upon. This chapter will also focus on the more rare occurrences such as eclipses and double or “blue” moons, plus that special day that only happens once every four years—Leap Day.
The Power of the Moon
As the earth’s only natural satellite, the moon has influence over the tides of the ocean. Since we are beings mostly made of water, it is thought that the shifts of the moon have an effect upon us as well. Spiritually speaking, the moon is considered a great focuser of astral energy; it absorbs, condenses, and channels stellar, planetary, and celestial energies that are sent to earth via the lunar light. 20 Without the moon to gather and channel these mystical forces, it is believed that magical practice would be much more difficult; the moon is the great facilitator, transferring the influences of the greater cosmos down to our world, enacting the Hermetic axiom: “As above, so below.”
The lunar cycle is a process with a similar nature to the (usual) four seasonal divisions of the year. The new moon is a point in time, followed by the waxing crescent phase. Next comes the first quarter point, followed by the waxing gibbous phase and then the full moon point. The full moon is the peak and then comes the waning gibbous phase and last quarter point. The last phase is the waning crescent followed by the dark moon point. The points could be considered similar to the solstices and equinoxes as these are times of concentrated energies (both astrologically and magically) with the phase that follows considered the “season” they have brought forth.
Magic worked according to lunar phase or cycle (regardless or form or intention) is inherently moon magic in that the spell sent into the astral plane is carried there through the medium of lunar energy. When casting a spell, we release our intention outward into the astral in order for it to gather strength, creating a strong enough form in that sphere that it then condenses into the physical world. When the moon is in the phase corresponding to the nature of our working, it generates the natural current that carries our intentions to their conclusion. This is one reason why different types of magic are timed to the moon phases or specific points in the lunar cycle.
New Moon
There are two definitions of “new moon,” one literal and the other more symbolic. The literal time of the new moon is when the moon is aligned with the sun and not visible to the naked eye. The symbolic time of the new moon is a couple of days afterward when the thin crescent sliver of moonlight is seen in the western horizon at sunset. This first sighting of the moon in its fresh waxing cycle is the new moon.
The point of the new crescent moon begins the phase of growth, increase and beginning projects. That which is begun at this time tends to grow stronger in accordance with the waxing light of the moon. Magic such as healing (mending and regrowth), new love, employment, friendship, and so on are favored during this time. It is also an appropriate time to work with deities of increase such as goddesses and gods of the hunt and of agriculture.
First Quarter Moon
This point in the lunar cycle is the waxing half-moon, the perfect half-circle in the evening sky. Astrologically, this is a time when the moon is considered square (at a 90º angle) to the sun. This isn’t the most propitious time for using magic to acquire something, as the energy does not flow as freely. It is, however, a good time to work magic to overcome a block or obstacle when trying to achieve a goal. Turning a corner and finding a new path to success is, oddly, favored now. It is also an ideal time to work with warrior deities as they can help you break through obstacles and conflicts.
Gibbous Moon
The gibbous moon is the phase in which the moon is “more than half.” When I see her face at his time, it reminds me of those beautiful “lady pin” brooches that have a cameo of a woman’s face on it usually covered partially by her hair, a veil, or a hat. This is similar to the moon at this time which is still partly obscured in shadow. This is a good time for magic for increase. The moon is almost full but still increasing (waxing) in power so the magic worked now follows suit. Working with any deity now for a positive purpose is favored.
Full Moon
The peak of lunar power! This is the point of the greatest output of light and energy cascading down to earth. We have at our disposal added energy and also greater natural ability to release our intent into the astral plane. We not only have increased access to the energy of the moon but also planetary and stellar energies, the moon being the magical gateway to connect to these powers. Any type of magic can be worked now for added potency as can psychic work and spiritual endeavors. It is also the key time to work with goddesses of all types, particularly the most ancient creator deities.
Disseminating Moon (Waning Gibbous)
The waning gibbous is just beginning its decrease, and so is good for magic that involves release. Spells cast in this regard will follow the lunar current and take away whatever is not desired as the moon continues to wane. Warrior deities such as Athene or Thor can help with this work.
Third Quarter Moon
This is the waning half-moon, the negative counterpart to the first quarter point in the cycle. The energy of this time is somewhat static but it is a good time for working to go around an obstacle. It is also good for working with warrior gods, again to overcome adversaries and obstacles and for achieving justice, though this should be done with care. It is considered unwise to call upon deities for petty or unjust purposes, and the specifics of what constitutes justice are best left to their judgment and according to the “for the good of all” ethical guideline.
Waning Crescent Moon
The time of the waning crescent is prime time for banishings, dissolution magic of all kinds, un-bindings, severing ties, and removing specific obstacles. A word of warning: it is not usually a good idea to cast a spell to “remove all obstacles” from your life as it isn’t always clear what may be an obstacle, and sometimes you would rather keep some things in place rather than having your life turned upside down all at once with numerous concurrent changes. Removing obstacles should ideally be a specific, case by case effort, done carefully and with the ethical implications well in mind.
This is also a fantastic time for healing magic aimed at removing illness, reducing swelling, dissolving unwanted growths, and similar. If the healing involves removing, dissolving, or purging something from the body, now is the best time to do it. This can be helped by working with deities of healing and transformation.
Dark Moon
The dark moon is the point directly prior to (and including) the literal new moon. This is the time when the moon is traveling so close to the sun (from our perspective) that it cannot be seen. The final benchmark before the lunar cycle renews itself, the dark moon is a good time for divination; looking deep within and beyond at the most receptive and introspective time in the cycle. It is also a time to work with deities of the night; goddesses and gods of the dark, the underworld and otherworld, though some prefer to avoid magical activities at this time.
Occasionally, two dark moons occur during a single month and when this happens, the second dark moon is sometimes referred to as a black moon. The black moon can be an excellent time for practicing deep meditations, introspection, silence, and acknowledging and releasing anger and pain.
How This Relates to Magical Practice
Sometimes, we get stuck in a magical rut where we might not see a new option or pathway to reaching a goal. In terms of the lunar cycle and magical timing, this can cause a type of magical paralysis wherein we may choose to avoid taking action because it is the “wrong” time in the moon’s cycle. While it is true that certain types of magic are better suited to the different phases, this need not be a hindrance to acting when needed. If properly considered, any goal can be successfully worked toward during any lunar phase. The secret is in how the goal is approached. For example, during the time of the waning moon, it is not generally favorable to cast a spell to seek employment, but it can be an excellent time to use magic on yourself to remove any disharmonious patterns to gaining employment: subconscious fears, bad habits, unprofessional behaviors, and so forth.
Conversely, during the waxing moon period it is not considered favorable to use magic for banishing or un-hexing, but it is perfect timing to work blessing magic strong enough to rid the problem all together. It is all about finding the right approach, a fact plainly evident regarding healing spells. As already shown, the type of healing most appropriate during the waxing phase is that of mending and regrowth. The waning moon phase is more suited to healing of the removing type—ridding the body of illness, swelling, or inflammation. Healing can be achieved in either phase; it is simply a matter of strategy and planning.
The Solar Eclipse
Astronomically speaking, a solar eclipse occurs when the orbit of the moon causes it to directly cross the path of the sun, blocking the solar rays and causing a shadow to form on the earth. Astrologically speaking, when this happens it is a perfect alignment (conjunction) of the sun and moon in the same zodiac sign. In astrology, because a solar eclipse only occurs during a new moon, it is considered to be a concentration of power, like a triple-strength new moon. This formation can create chaotic and disruptive energy that may be difficult, but it can also be harnessed to create important change.
This energy is not delicate—it is not the gentle warmth of a hearth fire on a cold winter’s night; it is instead a powerful laser beam or the searing heat from a carefully focused magnifying glass that concentrates the sun’s light into the force of fire. This energy should only be magically harnessed for magic designed to create a strong impact; when you want change to seemingly come out of nowhere, this is the aspect to choose.
The Lunar Eclipse
There are two divergent points of view regarding the lunar eclipse. The first view is actually a more recent development. The time during eclipse is considered a period of concentrated magic in which the moon, normally full at this time, instead experiences every phase at once as the shadow of the earth passes over it. In this sense it can be harnessed as a potent time for spellwork of nearly any purpose. The other point of view takes a different tack that considers the astrological difficulty in this lunar aspect.
Whereas a solar eclipse concentrates magical energies, a lunar eclipse can have a stifling and blocking effect. The lunar eclipse occurs when the earth passes between the sun and what would ordinarily be the moon’s full phase. The shadow covering the moon belongs to the earth as it blocks the sun’s rays. This blocking is a disruption of the usual order of things akin to damming a river; the flow and course of energy is altered. The usual course of action is to refrain from working magic at these times, but that only applies to outward projections as these can go unexpectedly awry, like trying to navigate the waters of a storm-tossed sea. The older view of eclipses was one of great fear and foreboding. Inner work or spells cast on the self can still be done without difficulties, as deeper levels can remain intact despite any energetic turmoil above.
Whichever viewpoint you feel drawn to, it is best to take great care with the magic you decide to perform; either way, the eclipse is a time of great effect. Some believe a lunar eclipse is a good time to connect with crone goddesses, especially those connected to the moon.
The Blue Moon
Similarly to the new moon, a blue moon can be defined in a few different ways. One definition is if a full moon occurs twice in the same month, the second one is known as a blue moon; another definition has it that the first of the two is the blue moon. Another method of determining a blue moon is an astrological way; whenever a full moon occurs twice in the same astrological sign (which may not happen within the same calendar month), this too can be called a blue moon. And as if it weren’t complicated enough, an old definition of “blue moon” is the third full moon in a season that has four full moons. No matter the definition, a blue moon affords us the opportunity to reassess matters; we get to double check, redo, or enhance any work done at the first full moon. This gives us an added dimension of power and depth that can aid our development spiritually and magically.
If you pre-plan, you can use the first moon and the subsequent moon to work long-term magic where you cast an initial spell and then later boost it with more magic. It helps to reserve the same items used in the initial spell to be used in the follow-up spell, keeping consistent with the moon’s energetic return.
Simmering Potpourris
Here is a potpourri to fill your home with lunar energies.
Lunar Spice Potpourri
Fill a pot half full with water and add the remaining ingredients. Simmer on the stove for as long as desired, adding more water if needed.
Brews
Although milk, white wine, or plain white grape juice can be used as the ritual beverage for moon work, I like to use a specially crafted potion designed to align with and capture the essence of lunar energy.
Lunar Light Potion
In a clear jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the water with the lemon and cucumber slices. The night before the full moon, place the jar in a window that faces the moon to allow the water to soak up the lunar rays, removing it before sunrise. Store the moon-infused water in the refrigerator until needed later that night. Just before serving, strain the moon water and add it to the grape juice. Slowly pour in the club soda and charge with the desire that this potion will help to connect you to the energies of the moon.
Incense
This incense is ritually appropriate for all phases of moon magic.
Esbat Incense
Combine the ingredients and burn during any lunar-centric working.
Oils
These oil formulas are tailored to the main phases of the moon and the eclipses. Each of these oils should ideally be made during their respective lunar phases and charged with the energy of that time.
New Moon Oil
This oil mixture offers energy for a wide variety of intentions and is perfect for the burgeoning power of the new moon.
Make in the usual way by warming all ingredients in a pot over low heat until you can smell the herbs in the air.
Dark Moon Oil
This dark moon formula is useful for work during the waning moon as well; it draws upon the deeper introspective nature of this part of the moon cycle.
Make the oil in the usual way, being sure to add the vanilla extract after the oil has cooled.
Full Moon Oil
Heat the oil in the usual way. If you have a piece of silver available (such as an old earring) you can add it to the finished bottle of oil, but this is an optional power boost and not necessary.
Lunar Eclipse Oil
Make in the usual way as close to the time before the eclipse as you can.
Solar Eclipse Oil
Make in the usual way before the eclipse.
Blue Moon Oil
Make in the usual way to promote growth and reassessing of projects.
Powders
The powder formula given here is an all-purpose moon powder. In some traditions cornmeal, wheat flour, or salt are used to draw magical symbols and this special powder can be used for this purpose. It can also be used to encircle candles or charms in order to further empower them during spell-casting.
Moon Dust Powder
Place all of the ingredients in a coffee grinder or food processor and grind into a powder. Charge with the energy of the moon and bottle for use.
Charms
To create a shining light infused with lunar energy that acts as a mystical beacon to the forces of spirit needn’t be hopelessly complicated; a quick trip to any supermarket will provide us whatever need.
Full Moon Jar Candle
Aside from becoming the perfect full moon esbat candle, the items used also correspond to cleansing and purification and can thus serve a dual purpose. In addition to the ingredients, you will also need an old pot, a sturdy knife, a spoon, and a small jar such as a jelly jar. All of these things should be items you no longer use for cooking. You may also need some paper towels. The candles called for are usually found in a store’s utility or home goods aisle, or sometimes they’re by the air fresheners.
It is a good idea to cover your workspace with newspaper or old plastic bags to catch any drippings or mess. Carefully cut the wax off of several of the candles, trying to preserve at least one of the wicks. Fill the jar with the wax pieces to overflowing to measure how much wax you will need. When you have accumulated the desired amount of wax bits, pour them into the pot (but don’t heat it yet). Using the point of the knife, carefully pierce through the center of the dried lemon peel to make a small hole. Thread the wick through the hole and tie it in a knot. This will be the weight for the wick. Make sure that the wick is long enough to extend above the top of your jar.
Once the wick is prepared, place it in the center of the jar and sprinkle the white raisins over and around it to keep it in place. Now it is time to melt the wax. Placing the pot or double boiler on the stove over very low heat, stir the wax slowly to melt it; wax is flammable so caution is needed here. For safety, you can fill a clean can with the wax and place this in a pot of water, heating it until the wax melts. When it is melted (don’t rush this step), remove it from the heat and add the dried lemon zest and the coconut extract. Stir to blend and the slowly pour enough of the wax to cover the raisins. Allow this to cool as this will ensure that the wick is firmly anchored in place. Once cooled, reheat the pot of wax and pour in another layer, holding the wick straight if necessary. If the wick is long enough, you can secure it to a pencil resting across the top of the jar and pour the full amount of wax in at one time. Allow the wax to harden. When the wax has hardened, there will usually be a depression formed in the surface. This is caused by a small pocket of air. To fix this, break through the surface with the knife to expose the air pocket and pour in a little more melted wax, just enough to create an even surface. Allow it to harden a second time, charge with your intent—in this case to connect with lunar energy and/or deities—and the candle is complete.
Foods
Though crescent-shaped cookies are a traditional food option during moon rituals, in my practice I like to make a standard post-ritual meal of Scottish stovies and bannock. The stovies are a mixture of potatoes and onion that are steam-cooked on the stove and the ingredients are aligned with moon work. The bannock bread is ritually appropriate but also made more so by creating a triple moon symbol on top of the loaf.
Scottish Stovies
Peel the potatoes and slice them about ¼" thick. Peel and coarsely chop the onion. Mix the potatoes and onion together in a bowl and season with salt and pepper to taste. In a heavy saucepan, pour water in the bottom (approximately ¼-inch across the surface) and add the butter. Pour the potato/onion mixture into the pan and cover. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding water if necessary to keep them burning, for about 30 minutes (until the potatoes are fork-tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed).
This basic recipe can be adapted in many ways. For vegans, butter can easily be omitted. For meat eaters, a half cup of cooked beef or sausage can be added on top of the potatoes while cooking. Optional moon-oriented vegetable add-ins include cauliflower, rutabaga, and turnips.
Triple Moon Bannock
Combine the water and milk in a large cup. Cream the butter, salt, baking powder, and a little bit of the flour together and slowly add the water/milk mixture, whisking together to blend. Add the flour to form a dough. Carefully press the dough into an oiled frying pan, to fill the pan like a large disk. Using the biscuit cutter or a drinking glass, press a circle into the middle of the dough to represent the full moon. Angling the cutter, make a “(” impression to the right of the circle and a “)” impression to the left, creating a triple crescent shape. Cook over low heat for approximately 10 minutes on each side so that it cooks all the way through and turns golden brown on the outside. Remove from heat and cool on a wire rack before serving.
Bath Salts
This bath salt can be used in the pre-ritual bath before lunar rituals.
Blessing of the Moon Bath Salt
Mix the dry ingredients and then add the extracts. Stir together and charge with the energies of blessing, purification, and lunar connection.
Ritual
This rite is an all-purpose lunar ritual that can be adapted depending on intent; simply substitute the correct oil, candle colors, and so on. This ritual can be used for any of the lunar phases or as a preliminary rite for any working. It is phrased in non-denominational terms though it can easily be adjusted to specific deities and traditions.
Rite of Esbat
Prepare an altar in the center of the ritual area with all the things you will need for the rite. Light the candles and the incense. When you are ready, pick up the athame and energetically encircle yourself so that you are within a magical orb. Sprinkle saltwater around the circle in a clockwise direction to neutralize any energies not in harmony with your work. Afterward, settle yourself before the altar and meditate on the moon. In your mind’s eye, see the moon floating above in its current phase, carrying all that power of this time. Reach out with your feelings and try to connect to the lunar energy and the divine energies above and behind the power of the moon.
When you feel a connection, pick up the cup of potion and the athame. Bless the potion (or wine) by lowering the tip of the athame into the cup and saying:
Vessel of creation, elixir of life,
union of spirit and flesh combine;
liquid charged through cup and knife,
pierce the veil and bless the wine.
Deities of the moon, through the power of all,
I call to you to lend your strength
and forge a greater bond.
Blessed be the union. Blessed be the voyage.
Blessed be the magic. Blessed be the power of all.
Raise the cup in both hands in gratitude, and drink in the energy of magic and communion. This infuses your body with magic. Now is the time to cast any spells, work any divinations, or call to any specific deities. Once the work has been completed, it is time to move to the ritual meal. Circle each serving plate of food with the athame in an act of energetic blessing saying, “May this food be blessed to nurture our bodies, minds, and spirits.” After the meal is complete, it is time to conclude the rite.
Thank any deities you have called and draw back the circle through the athame by walking counterclockwise around the boundary. Extinguish the incense and the candles. The esbat is complete.
Witchy Ways
When I was younger, I could tell you what phase, astrological sign, and approximate location in the sky the moon was in at any given time. I adore the moon and before all of the business of adulthood took hold, I always kept very close to the lunar tides. Now, all the hustle and bustle of a busy life have made it necessary for me to remind myself of a great many things. I always have a list on hand and one of my pet sayings is (once I put an event in my phone calendar), “okay, it exists now” because if it isn’t in my phone, it’s not in my brain.
If you have a similarly busy life, it might be helpful to look up the full moons and any other significant celestial or astrological dates and add them into your cell phone’s calendar as reminders. This way, you’ll always be informed when the moon is full. I know that sounds weird (looking up at the sky could tell you), but being in the car or indoors so much, many of us rarely get the chance to “check in” with the moon and stars regularly. Having a reminder gives us the opportunity to stop and make that connection.
Lunar Shopping List
February 29
Whether we are seeking to shift away from the usual paradigm or trying to restore the balance to what has gone askew, Leap Day, February 29, is the ideal moment to act. An astronomical year—that is, the time it takes for the earth to make a complete orbit around the sun—is roughly 365 days and 6 hours, so to make up for the discrepancy in the calendar year, an extra day is added every four years in order to restore the balance and keep the calendar accurate.
Though this added day does not necessarily carry any inherently special magical power (other than what is present every other day) like a solstice or equinox does, it is still a powerfully symbolic day that can be magically harnessed to bring intentional change. Some of the old lore about this day includes the notion that women can propose to men on this day. 21 Though to the modern mind that sounds laughably sexist and ridiculous, in the Middle Ages, it was unheard of to operate outside of the strict societal mores. The idea was that February 29 exists outside of the usual calendar and thus was beyond the typical rules of conduct.
If we are free to act outside the normal boundaries, this is an ideal time to the break bonds we believe hold us down. It is also a good time to create dynamic change. If the history of this day is about upending social norms, why not harness it magically in spells designed for progressive social change?
Incense
Here is the incense formula for the Leap Day spell for change.
Leap Day Incense
Combine the herbs and charge with the intent that it will manifest your wishes.
Oils
This is the oil recipe for the Leap Day spell for change featured below.
Leap Day Oil
Warm all the ingredients until you can smell it in the air. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Strain the oil, charge, and bottle for use.
Ritual
Leap Day of Change
Write what you wish to change (write the solution, not the problem) on a piece of paper. Anoint the corners of the paper with the oil. Anoint each candle with the oil, from both ends to the middle, and light the incense in the cauldron. Visualize what you want to occur and when this vision is at its peak, light the paper in the flame of one candle, drop it into the cauldron over the incense, and say:
Day out of time, this change I implore;
a new shift in paradigm, is in store;
what does not work shall cease to be,
replaced with new path to see.
For good of all and by free will,
let this magic be fulfilled.
Extinguish the candles and the incense.
Leap Day Shopping List